8 LOW BUDGET WAYS TO DE-STRESS

“Work is stressful “

“School is stressful “

“Home is stressful”

“Life is stressful! “

Sayings that are almost as old as time.

We all get stressed by something at some point in our daily lives but in order not to get overwhelmed by stressful situations, we all have to learn ways to de-stress. Here are some of the ways you can do that without stressing your account.

1.Have some chocolate: Decent chocolate is not that expensive. You can get a Cadbury bar for as low as 350 and you're good to go. Here's why you need chocolate; studies have shown that eating chocolate-especially dark chocolate can actually reduce the levels of stress hormones like cortisol in the blood. If you're not a huge fan of dark chocolate, you can have your white or milk. Just don't go crazy with it, moderation is key.

2. Take a walk: A long evening walk round your neighbourhood will go a long way in relieving your stress. Just take a walk and make conscious effort to enjoy it. Push your busy thoughts aside, listen to some music and take in your surroundings.

3. Ask for help: Sometimes the need to control everything around us is the major source of our stress. Know your limits and don't try to over exert yourself so you don't burn out. Don't be afraid or too proud to ask for help from people that are capable of doing some of the work for you.

4. Exercise: Exercising is a good way to release some of the tension in our minds and bodies. If a gym membership is too expensive, run or jog in your neighbourhood or workout at home. High impact exercises like boxing can come in handy when you're particularly super stressed. Punch out all that frustration and feel your mind and body loosen up.

5. Be with people that care about you: Sometimes all we need is TLC from people we love to help us forge ahead. A hug from your best friend or significant other is free; go to the park and have a picnic with friends and enjoy their company.

6. Reward yourself: Don't wait for the big victories before you celebrate. Reward yourself for your small wins. It'll help reduce pressure and motivate you to do better in the next task. You can buy yourself a nice dinner or even a new dress.

7. Meditation: There are free apps and even apps you don't have to pay so much for that help with meditation and relaxing your mind and body. You can try some of those out.

8. Sleep: Lack of sleep can be a major problem. Close those files or textbooks and sleep. When you wake up your mind is rested and refreshed and you'll be ready to work again.

Bonus tip: Avoid stressful situations when possible.

I know these things seem easier said than done and you might have even heard them all before. Stress might be inevitable but you have to be very intentional about your mental and physical health.